A promotional poster, which shows a man in pink boxer-shorts being crucified, has been banned from the Tube.

Transport for London (TfL) said the advert for the play Fat Christ, which begins showing this week in Islington, north London, was offensive.

TfL said the advertisement would break its commitment to avoid adverts likely to offend some members of society.

Writer Gavin Davis said sensitivities could be found on "many images" on the underground and in the media.

Modern crucifixion

The play was based, in part, on a person who auditioned for the play Jesus Christ Super Star and was told he was too fat to be given the part.

Mr Davis said that while he understood the image could be sensitive, in this case it portrayed the play.

"Part of the subject matter of the play is that the lead character creates a painting of the modern crucifixion... as a symbolism of all religions and the parallels and sensitivities that they have got," he said.

A TfL spokesman said: "Millions of people travel on the London Underground each day and they have no choice but to view whatever adverts are posted there.

"We have to take account of every passenger and endeavour not to cause offence in the advertising we display."